After a five-year hiatus, one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time, Marcel Hirscher, is set to make a surprising return to competition. The International Ski Federation (FIS) has granted him a wildcard entry for the World Cup opening race in Soelden. However, Hirscher won’t be racing under Austria’s colors this time, but for the Netherlands.
A New Chapter for Hirscher
The 35-year-old Hirscher, who retired from professional skiing in 2019, is a two-time Olympic champion and seven-time world champion. He also claimed the overall World Cup title an astonishing eight times, dominating the sport from 2011 to 2019. In a surprising twist, Hirscher announced earlier this year that he intends to return to competitive skiing representing the Netherlands, a country of his maternal heritage. His mother was born in the Netherlands, and Hirscher holds dual citizenship.
The Dutch Ski Federation submitted a request to FIS, which has now been officially approved, allowing Hirscher to participate in the giant slalom at the Soelden World Cup event scheduled for October 27. This marks a major moment for both the athlete and his new national team.
A Legendary Career Resumes
Hirscher made his World Cup debut in 2007, and just two years later, in December 2009, he secured his first victory in the giant slalom at Val d’Isère. Over the span of his illustrious career, Hirscher claimed a total of 67 World Cup victories, making him one of the most successful skiers in history.
His decision to return to racing under a different flag has captured the attention of the alpine skiing world. The Austrian Ski Federation, where Hirscher made his name, has expressed support for his decision to compete for the Netherlands.
Eyes on Soelden
All eyes will be on Soelden as Hirscher makes his comeback. The giant slalom event will be a crucial test for the skiing legend, as fans and competitors alike are eager to see if he can still perform at the highest level after such a long break. Regardless of the result, Hirscher’s return adds a new level of excitement to the 2024 season, as a once-in-a-generation talent steps back onto the slopes, this time with a new national identity.
Hirscher’s comeback has the potential to reshape the alpine skiing landscape, and his performance in Soelden will be one of the most anticipated events of the year.
